The 2018 show hosted junior cattle exhibitors from across Texas competing for awards and $36,210 in premiums.

"I didn't know how well I did at first," said May. "This was my second time showing here, so I had an idea of the layout. I knew the competition here is incredible and that winning was a huge deal. I was shocked when the judge called my name, but I'm just so honored."

Of the 33,000 entries at the nation's longest-running livestock, the livestock exhibited by more than 11,500 juniors are among the best market animals in the country. One of the show's main objectives is to support the professional and leadership development efforts offered by the 4-H and FFAQ programs in Texas.

After May's accomplishment, she was extremely appreciative to her parents and close family friends for putting her in a position to be successful.

"My parents have always supported me no matter what," said May. "They've been my driving force along with the Counsil family, I couldn't have done it without them."

•The Madisonville FFA group was named Reserve Champion in the Ag Machinery and Equipment Division of the Junior Agricultural Mechanics Project Show in Fort Worth.

The Ag Mechanics Project Show is considered a highlight of the opening weekend.

Members of FFA and 4-H organizations spent countless hours designing and constructing equipment such as livestock and wildlife feeders, trailers and cultivation tools to suit a variety of farm and ranch needs. There are also divisions for outdoor recreational equipment as well as a division for the restoration of farm and ranch equipment such as tractors and horse-drawn equipment. The contest has received significant popularity among high school agricultural science programs since 2013.

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo lasted 23 days and concluded on Saturday.